Coming into this new era of badminton at the Palais De Sports in Orleans many would not have expected to see Lucas Claerbout’s names on the semi final sheet in the bottom half of the draw. The French number four had other ideas however after beating Alexander Roovers in this evenings quarter final.
It took Claerbout three sets to beat Emil Holst in yesterday’s last 16 match and the Frenchman had to take the scenic route once again this afternoon to see of the challenge of his German opponent.
-Coming into this match I was very stressed. I had bad feelings knowing this was an opportunity to go to the semi final for the first time.
After sharing the opening games the match extended over the hour where the Claerbout finally pushed through to move into the semi-final.
-There were some long rallies and I think both of us were getting very tired but I could feel the support of the French people behind me and I think that had a big part to play in getting me through. I can now rest but I will need to come into tomorrow’s match in a more relaxed way if I am to succeed.
Gemke downs Parupalli
Rasmus Gemke (pictured above) came into this evenings quarter final higher ranked and with a higher seeding that Kashyap Parupalli. The Dane however knew that the experienced Indian was never going to be a push over with many seeing Parupalli as a slight favourite.
-This was never going to be easy. Everyone knows the talent that Kashyap has and with his experience also it was always going to be tough.
A very controlled Gemke took the opening game which proved decisive in the Danes victory.
-Looking back at it winning the first was very important. He looked a little bit shaken after than and seemed to lose concentration. I also manage to win key points and key times in the first set which was sure to have hurt him.
Both Claerbout and Gemke will now meet in tomorrows semi final and the Frenchman was clear in his view as to who is favourite for that game.
-For sure Rasmus is favourite. He is ranked higher with better wins so I guess all the pressure will be on him. I just need to arrive relaxed and ready to give everything.